Drivers warned to stop filling petrol tanks after first 'click' to save money

Motorists topping up their petrol vehicles have been warned to ditch a common habit: overfilling. This occurs when drivers add extra fuel to their tank even after the pump nozzle clicks off the first time.

While some may think they're squeezing a bit more mileage out of their tank, it could actually be costing them at the petrol station and in repair costs, according to experts at Show Plates World. They clarified why the click is "not optional".

They explained: "It's the fuel system's safety cut-off. If you keep squeezing, you risk overfilling your car's filler neck. Extra fuel may end up in the drain beneath the entry point or be sucked straight back into the pump's reclaim system. In both cases, you've effectively paid for fuel that never makes it into your tank."

Although this might only cost a few pennies at the petrol station, maintaining this habit over time can cost you significantly more or even affect your health. Most petrol cars have a charcoal canister in the fuel system designed to prevent harmful fumes from escaping when you open the petrol cap.

By forcing more fuel into your car after the safety cut-off has been triggered, liquid might end up in this mechanism that is meant to only deal with vapour. It will contaminate the canister and could lead to failed emissions tests and repair bills potentially costing up to £500 as these parts don't come cheap.

Furthermore, fuel expands when temperatures rise, meaning if you're topping up your tank beyond the initial click during sweltering weather, you're squandering even more petrol and risking spillage.

Filling up properly

First click

Once the nozzle automatically stops at the first click, cease adding petrol immediately. Many pumps let you preset the amount if you wish to add a particular quantity of fuel.

Number bias

The specialists explained: "Rounding up to the nearest pound might look neat on the receipt, but it's a false economy. The best value comes from stopping at the click."

Red flags

Should you have been overfilling your tank, it's wise to recognise the warning signs of a compromised vapour system. These include check engine lights appearing, a potent petrol odour and pumps repeatedly shutting off whilst you're attempting to refuel. Addressing these problems early can prevent expensive repair costs.